EQUINE OSTEOPATHY
Valissa is currently enrolled in a 4-year program in equine osteopathy at the
Vluggen Institute of Equine Osteopathy.
Equine osteopathy is based on the same foundation, principles and philosophy as human osteopathy. Essentially the overriding premises of both human and equine osteopathy are that the various systems of the body are intrinsically linked on every level, and that the body has an inherent and profound ability to heal itself when given the opportunity to do so. Of course the actual practice goes far deeper, but this is a good starting point for those not familiar with the modality.
“Osteopathy is a system of engineering of the whole human body, that keeps the communication with the brain open, and prevents all possible blood and liquid stasis."
- Andrew Taylor Still
Brief History
The practice of human osteopathy was founded by Andrew Taylor Still nearly 150 years ago in 1874. Despite the complexity and effectiveness of the practice, it is still not widely understood as a modality for achieving true health.
Dr. Dominique Giniaux of France in the 1970’s was a primary figure in the initial development of equine osteopathy. Dr. Giniaux was followed by Anthony Pusey in the 1980's, whose tireless efforts to place equine osteopathy on solid scientific grounds included establishing a Master of Science degree at the University of Wales, which focused on the osteopathic treatment of animals.
According to A.T. Still, STASIS, or any lack of mobility on any level
(musculoskeletal, visceral, fluidal, fascial, etc) in the body ultimately leads to disorder.
it's all connected...
Equine osteopathy is solidly based in anatomy, physiology and the inter-connectedness of the various systems of the body. Nothing exists in a vacuum and the body is no different. What affects one system or area, WILL MOST ASSUREDLY affect surrounding tissue/structures/nerves as well as "seemingly unrelated" structures much further away. Osteopathy recognizes the critical need to ADDRESS ISSUES AT ALL LEVELS - musculoskeletal, nervous, visceral and cranial sacral - in orderto allow the body to TRULY rebalance. It's not enough to simply adjust one structure and "call it good".
“Osteopathy is to me a very sacred science. It is sacred because it is a healing power through all nature.” A.T. Still
Osteopathy is Both Science and Art
four principles of osteopathy
1. Reciprocity Between Structure and Function
2. Innate Ability of the Body to Heal Itself
3. Unity and Interconnectedness of All Systems of the Body
4. The Rule of the Artery
More on this to come!
Serving the South Jersey, Greater Philadelphia and Delaware Region